September 27, 2013

Flash! Friday: Prompt #43

Flash! Friday is upon us! Almost at the deadline, but here is this week's story: 150 words, +/- 5 on this photo:

Teaching Abroad

Throwing children out of windows isn’t normal. At the height of their trajectory, they float for a heartbeat in the air. Orange light paints over their skin. It’s almost beautiful, but it isn’t normal.

Some of the older kids understand, and they all fight our holds instinctively in fear. But we’re stronger, and we’re determined. Their wiggling and crying cannot slow us down. Screams tear through me, but I don’t even pause.

“I hate heights,” the little boy in my arms whispers.

“Close your eyes,” I can’t help whispering back.

The second he does, I clench my jaw and toss. His arms flail as he flies. Fourteen.

I pray the hands outside will catch him.

We search the smoky room for any small bodies left behind. The flames lick at my feet through the remaining patches of floor.

Nice story. I was wondering who could write about a picture like that or felt that what anyone would write would be too obvious but you broke free and nailed it!Excellent work Aria!I like how the beginning and end come together. I also did not think the opening line would be 'literal' :)Excellent work!Keep it up